Renting a furnished apartment can be a convenient choice for those who want a move-in-ready home. While the level of furnishing varies by location and rental price, most furnished apartments include essential furniture, appliances, and basic household items. Here’s what you can typically expect when leasing a furnished apartment in the U.S.
1. Standard Furniture
A fully furnished apartment generally comes with enough furniture to make daily living comfortable. Here’s what is typically included:
Living Room:
- Sofa or loveseat
- Coffee table
- Side tables or lamps
- Entertainment stand (sometimes with a TV)
- Armchairs (optional, but common in luxury rentals)
Bedroom(s):
- Bed frame with mattress (queen or full size, though luxury rentals may offer king-sized beds)
- Nightstands with lamps
- Dresser or chest of drawers
- Closet with hangers or shelving
- Desk and chair (sometimes included in home office setups)
Dining Area/Kitchen:
- Dining table with chairs (typically seating for 2-6, depending on apartment size)
- Bar stools (if there’s a kitchen island or breakfast bar)
2. Kitchen Appliances and Essentials
Unlike unfurnished apartments, furnished rentals often come with kitchen necessities, including:
- Refrigerator (full-sized in most cases)
- Stove and oven (gas or electric)
- Microwave (commonly built-in or countertop)
- Dishwasher (standard in mid-to-high-end apartments)
- Toaster or toaster oven
- Coffee maker
- Basic cookware (pots, pans, and baking sheets)
- Utensils and dishware (plates, bowls, glasses, and silverware)
Some high-end furnished apartments in cities like Los Angeles, Chicago, or New York City may also include:
- High-end coffee machines (like Keurig or Nespresso)
- Blender or food processor
- Wine fridge or bar cart
3. Laundry and Cleaning Essentials
Depending on the unit and location, a furnished apartment may also provide:
- Washer and dryer (in-unit or shared)
- Vacuum cleaner
- Iron and ironing board
- Mop and broom
Apartments in high-rent areas like San Francisco or Boston often include these amenities as part of the rental package, while budget-friendly rentals may only provide access to communal laundry facilities.
4. Bathroom and Bedroom Necessities
Furnished apartments typically include:
- Shower curtain and bath mat
- Towels and washcloths
- Bed linens, pillows, and comforters
- Hangers in the closet
Luxury apartments or corporate housing in cities like Miami or Dallas may go a step further, offering:
- High-thread-count sheets
- Designer bath products
- Decorative touches like framed artwork or candles
5. Additional Amenities in Premium Rentals
Some high-end furnished apartments offer extra conveniences, including:
- Smart TVs and streaming subscriptions (Netflix, Hulu, etc.)
- Smart home features (voice-controlled lighting or thermostats)
- Fully stocked kitchen pantries (common in corporate housing)
- Outdoor furniture (balcony or patio seating)
Regional Differences in Furnished Rentals
- In New York City, furnished rentals are often compact but come with space-saving furniture like foldable dining tables or Murphy beds.
- In Florida, many furnished apartments include ceiling fans and outdoor seating due to the warm climate.
- In ski towns like Aspen or Denver, furnished apartments may provide heated floors, fireplaces, and boot warmers.
- In Texas, you may find larger apartments with sectional sofas and king-sized beds, even in standard rentals.
Final Thoughts
Furnished apartments offer a convenient solution for renters looking for a hassle-free move. While most include essential furniture and appliances, always check the lease agreement or ask the landlord for a full inventory to avoid surprises. Whether you’re relocating for work, staying short-term, or just want a fully equipped space, a furnished rental can provide comfort without the need to buy and move heavy furniture.